Chris Faytok/The Star-LedgerRutgers' Kia Vaughn, front, pictured in a game against UConn in April, was named to the 2008-09 preseason "Wade Watch" list along with teammate Epiphanny Prince.

Hey, it's August, and I've got blisters on my feet in smoggy/sunny Beijing, but it's NEVER too early to talk women's hoops. Just received some news that I wanted to pass along.

Kia Vaughn and Epiphanny Prince were named to the 2008-09 preseason "Wade Watch" list for the State Farm Wade Trophy Division I Player of the Year.

There are 25 players named to the list each year. According to the official press release, tI'll get into more detail as we draw closer to the team's first official practice, but I'm anticpating huge things from both players this season. I got a feeling Vaughn is ready to break into the nation's elite players. We saw flashes last year (uh, ask anyone on Iowa State), but I believe she's about take her game to the next level.

The list is comprised of those players exhibiting "game and season statistics, leadership, character, effect on their team and overall playing ability."

I'm not sure what all of that means, but I can definitely say that Vaughn and Prince can play basketball.... and play it well.

Prince, a third-team AP All America last season, has all the ability in the world to be in the discussion for Player of the Year. Consistency will be her biggest hurdle.

The candidates for the State Farm Wade Trophy are listed in alphabetical order: